ABS to class second-generation ultra-deepwater offloading unit

ABS will class the Remora HiLoad dynamic positioning (DP) BR loading unit, a second generation of the HiLoad DP system that connects to and keeps conventional tankers in position during crude oil offloading from floating production installations.

Aug 25th, 2014

Offshore staff

HOUSTON–ABS will class the Remora HiLoad dynamic positioning (DP) BR loading unit, a second generation of the HiLoad DP system that connects to and keeps conventional tankers in position during crude oil offloading from floating production installations.

The HiLoad technology consists of a proprietary high-capacity friction attachment system capable of transferring several thousand tons of friction force between the loading unit and a conventional tanker, enabling it to station keep any non-dedicated tanker or barge without the need for modifications to the hull structure or associated equipment, such as mooring or offloading lines.

In 2013, Remora was contracted byBG Group to perform a FEED study for the next generation of HiLoad DP units. The new HiLoad DP BR unit will include increased engine power and the capability to maneuver vessels larger than suezmax size, such as very large crude carriers (VLCCs) with carrying capacity of 320,000 dwt, in the Santos basin, where as many as 15 FPSOs will be working by 2018.

The goal for the FEED study was to develop a next-generation HiLoad DP unit that could station keep a VLCC next to an FPSO and at the same time offload directly to the VLCC in at least 95% of the weather conditions in the Santos basin environment.

"The world's largest oil discoveries in recent years have come fromBrazil's deepwater, presalt basins, which have contributed to record production from the region," says Geir Ove Saltvedt, Remora AS senior vice president, Technical Division. "Remora is pleased to work with ABS to class the next-generation HiLoad DP, which will provide BG Brasil with an easier, safer, and direct method to export crude oil from the region's presalt developments."

Upon completion of class requirements, the HiLoad DP BR loading unit will receive the A1, AMS-NP, DPS-2, AMCC, AMCCU, and UWILD notations under ABS class. The functional description, Tanker Loading and Station Keeping System, will be included in the ABSRecord in addition to the class notation.